As the world is navigating an unprecedented situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the scenario is presenting new challenges to the educational sector. American law schools, usually resistant to change, are finding it difficult to cope with the new normal.
Like other educational institutions, the majority of law schools in the U.S. had moved to online lessons, canceled campus activities, and restricted access to other facilities. However, the ongoing crisis seems to be affecting the next year’s enrollment more than the current students, as schools struggle to connect remotely with prospective and accepted applicants.
The Declining Numbers
According to the Law School Admission Council, the number of applicants to law schools with ABA accreditation is down 2.5% compared to this point last year. In 2019, schools had already received 95% of the applications for the fall semester by early June. This year, over two-thirds of American Law schools are seeing a decrease in applications.
However, as experts point out, it might still be early to be concrete about the declining application numbers. Before comparing historical application trends and patterns, there is critical information to weigh in. The most obvious change this year concerning aspiring law students is the disruption of the Law School Admission Test.
LSAT-Flex and Schedule Changes
In the remarkable turn of events, LSAT was canceled for the months of March and April. In late May, the Council announced a pared-down version of the test, LSAT-Flex, to be available for applicants to take tests from their personal computers. The new version of the test was first administered in May, with nearly 10,000 candidates attending the exam.
Given the circumstances, it is indisputable that the postponement of LSATs has had a significant impact on law school admissions. It is possible that the best law schools in California and other parts of the U.S. may see a new wave of late applications from those who took LSAT in the later months.
Moreover, many colleges have also foreseen the delays and have extended the application deadlines for the fall semester.
Enrollment of International Students
International students are another significant component of the enrollment numbers in U.S. law schools. With the continued uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 is predicted to see a dramatically smaller number of international applications. Alongside those who pursue J.D.s, this year will also see a decrease in foreign lawyers hoping to enroll in LL.M. programs in the country.
Students who are keen to experience studying in the U.S. are likely to be reluctant to sign up for online programs instead of the campus lifestyle, especially if the U.S. campuses remain closed in the fall. Moreover, international travel restrictions could also hinder the students’ ability to move to the U.S. The uncertainty also extends to concerns over obtaining student visas in time for the fall semester.
However, in the midst of the crisis, students seem to be more focused than ever. The LSAT scores are up 7% for the highest band between 175 and 180, suggesting that law schools can expect a robust set of students next year.
It is evident that the ongoing crisis is looming over law school admissions, even if only for the short term. The next few months are critical in deciding the fate of U.S. law schools and prospective students eager to receive their legal education.
